Flextrus PaperLite® is the paper-based material that can compete with plastic in areas
where this was previously not possible. The British retail chain Marks & Spencer is the
first company to choose PaperLite as a packaging solution for sliced meat.
Marks & Spencer has launched sliced meat in a paper packaging made of Flextrus PaperLite based
on Billerud FibreForm – the paper material with high stretchability, which can be formed in existing
thermoforming lines without requiring costly investments.
Marks & Spencer’s new packaging offers product safety equal to that of the plastic tray since a protective
barrier preserves the product’s quality and taste. The packaging was developed in a joint project between
Marks & Spencer, Billerud and Flextrus. Billerud manufactures
the unique paper and Flextrus both prints and applies an
advanced, tailor-made barrier solution and sealing properties to
the paper.
The product is produced in existing thermoforming lines at Tulip,
with no investments in extra equipment needed.
Marks & Spencer’s choice of PaperLite is in line with its
innovation ambitions underpinned with environmental credentials.
“Marks & Spencer are delighted to have launched this first-to-market
innovation in packaging with Flextrus. The PaperLite packaging provides premium look to our
ham and is constructed from sustainable FSC-sourced paper. It is important to Marks & Spencer to work
with innovative solution providers to develop packaging for the future and Flextrus has supported our
innovation work through their proactive approach,” says Mark Caul, packaging technologist at Marks &
Spencer.
The environmental benefits with PaperLite are very strong with the manufacturing at Flextrus being
FSC-certified and the packaging solution providing substantial pack weight reduction. In addition, it is ideal
for product differentiation through its unique look and feel of true paper.
“We are very pleased that Marks & Spencer has chosen to use PaperLite as an environmentally smart
packaging solution for its products. Major companies in Europe show interest in it and we support both
commercially and technically to ensure all packaging requirements are met,” says Cliff Gors, sales
director UK and Ireland at Flextrus.